Related Experiment Videos
Changes in hand function following wrist arthrodesis in cerebal palsy
D G Hargreaves1, D J Warwick, M A Tonkin
1Department of Hand Surgery, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, Australia.
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|November 4, 2000
Summary
Wrist arthrodesis surgery improved hygiene, cosmesis, and hand function in cerebral palsy patients. The procedure was particularly effective for individuals with athetoid cerebral palsy, enhancing overall function.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Pediatric orthopedics
- Cerebral palsy management
Background:
- Cerebral palsy often leads to wrist deformities and functional limitations.
- Impaired hand function impacts daily activities, hygiene, and cosmesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of wrist arthrodesis in patients with cerebral palsy.
- To assess improvements in hygiene, cosmesis, and hand function post-surgery.
Main Methods:
- Eleven wrists in ten cerebral palsy patients underwent wrist arthrodesis.
- Surgical techniques included AO plate fixation or K-wire stabilization.
- Proximal row carpectomy and soft tissue releases were performed as needed.
Main Results:
- The surgery successfully improved wrist hygiene and cosmesis in all patients.
- Eight out of eleven wrists showed functional improvement.
- Patients with athetoid cerebral palsy demonstrated consistent functional gains.
Conclusions:
- Wrist arthrodesis is an effective surgical option for managing wrist deformities in cerebral palsy.
- The procedure offers significant benefits for hygiene, cosmesis, and hand function, especially in athetoid subtypes.